Almost two thousand motorcycle accidents were reported in Washington in the most recent year available on the official website tracking traffic fatalities and injuries.
There were almost 6,300 accidents caused by drunk driving in Washington State in the most recent year for which data is available, according to the Washington Department of Transportation. Motorcycle riders and other motorists are especially at risk from drunk drivers because of the increased risk of collisions they pose. Other drivers’ reaction times are slowed by alcohol, making accidents more likely. Drunk driving accounts for a disproportionate share of fatal car accidents in the state annually, so it is important you get help from a personal injury attorney.
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Negligent Driving
Distracted driving is a major contributor to auto accidents in Washington state. A motorbike rider is not the only one who can feel the effects of careless driving. The risk of an accident occurring increases dramatically when a motorcyclist is distracted. Unfortunately, though, other motorists’ distractions cause many motorbike accidents. Some examples of this behavior include drivers who are engaged in activities such as talking on their phones, grabbing items in the car, rubbernecking, and more.
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Speeding
In Washington state, excessive speed is a leading cause of both accidents and injuries from those incidents. It is vital to emphasize that a driver traveling faster than the posted limit is not always speeding. Drivers who exceed the safe speed for the current conditions, which can be lower than the posted speed limit depending on factors like weather, visibility, and the state of the road, also fall into this category.
Low Quality of Roads
Roads in poor condition pose a significant threat to motorcyclists. Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to hazards like potholes, loose gravel, bumps, and other motorist errors because of the nature of their vehicles. Due to the fact that a motorcycle’s two wheels need to be moving in order for the bike to stay upright, the dangers posed by any obstruction in the road are greatly exacerbated.
Dangerous U-Turns
Riders of motorcycles and other motorists should always prioritize safety. It entails things like signaling your intentions with a hand signal or turn signal, patiently waiting for an available lane, safely switching lanes, and continuing on. Major accidents can occur if drivers do not employ turn signals or do not wait for available space. Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable since typical car drivers often neglect to examine their blind zones. The results of lane switching into a motorcyclist can be catastrophic, especially if the rider loses control and crashes or is forced off the road.
